Telecom services provider Idea Cellular, which claims to add one broadband site to its network every 10 minutes, plans to launch its 4G services in nine circles, expanding the coverage to 20 circles in FY17.
Idea has planned nearly 57,000 additional sites this year to enable the launch of 4G in nine circles.
“With the launch of 4G services in UP West, UP East, Gujarat, Mumbai, Bihar, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Assam and Jammu & Kashmir where spectrum was acquired in the recent auction - Idea will expand its 4G network to 20 circles in FY17,” the company said in a press release.
Currently, Idea’s wireless broadband network is spread across 17 circles covering a population of over 88 crore.
“Idea’s 4G footprint, by the end of this year, will cover our key 20 circles contributing 94 per cent of the company revenue and 90 per cent of industry revenue. I am confident that our strengths of stable, reliable and legendary operational execution coupled with agile and adaptive work style, will keep us ahead of the curve as we move into the next phase of telecom industry revolution driven by Digital,” said Himanshu Kapania, Managing Director, Idea Cellular.
“To support the rapid rollout of network, Idea has planned a capital expenditure of Rs. 7,500 to 8,000 core. Additionally, the company spent Rs. 13,000 crore to acquire spectrum in the recent auction,” Idea said.
The company also plans to introduce Live TV, Digital Magazines and Newspaper subscription, Video and Audio Chat, Rich messaging and Voice over IP services in the next financial year.
Idea is India’s third largest national mobile operator, with over 186 million subscribers.
